Between necessity and opportunity: administrative and financial skills of women entrepreneurs in the popular and solidarity sector in Ecuador

Abstract

Introduction: The study analyzes the administrative and financial skills of women entrepreneurs in the popular and solidarity sector in Ecuador, differentiating between necessity-driven and opportunity-driven entrepreneurship. Methodology: A total of 427 surveys were conducted with women entrepreneurs from various provinces, using a non-experimental, field-based, descriptive-analytical design. The surveys, composed of closed-ended questions with a Likert scale, collected data on motivations and skills. Results: The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, revealing that 51% of women entrepreneurs start their businesses out of necessity, while 49% do so due to opportunity. Significant deficiencies were found in inventory control and accounts receivable management, affecting the liquidity and sustainability of the businesses. Discussion: It was determined that the civil status and age of the entrepreneurs influence their motivation to start a business, with a high participation of young and single women. Conclusion: The perceived ability to work effectively is associated with necessity-driven entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of strengthening administrative and financial skills and improving access to educational and financial resources through training programs for the sustainability and growth of women's enterprises in Ecuador.